Sabeto deserves better
Every heavy downpour turns Sabeto Junction into a roadblock, leaving commuters, students, and local farmers stranded — even when the Sabeto River stays within its banks. This persistent drainage failure threatens tourism, access to eight Grace Road Group farms, Pacific students of Fulton College and workers heading to Fiji’s largest gold mining operations. It is time for the Government to deliver a permanent drainage and road solution. The Namaka–Sabeto corridor is critical. “Sabeto isn’t just a road — it’s Fiji’s gateway for tourism and trade.” Joeli Tuiveikau II Lumuni, Sabeto
Drainage audit
Sigatoka Town was inundated with flood after torrential downpour. I am certain that this was the first time for this to happen. Unlike Rakiraki, Nadi and Ba towns, such scenarios are always expected after continuous rain. However, it is high time for these towns’ infrastructure to be upgraded to accommodate the continuous developments within their boundaries, in my opinion. Most times, consistent maintenance has been neglected. As a matter of fact, the “rainfall intensity” within the past 10 years, I believe, has aggressively increased and has overwhelmed the existing “outdated” stormwater system. And as the breadbasket and a vital hub for the tourism industry, this issue should have been resolved long before. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Samu Silatolu Nakasi
Brace for more rain!
It was a wet weekend for many Fijians. Floodwater dampened spirits in the West including parts of Ba, Tavua and Rakiraki which experienced flooding. Fiji also experienced torrential rain. Fijians must brace for more rain and flash flooding. The Fiji Times did great in reporting stories and sharing images from the flood-hit areas. As we experience heavy rain and flash flooding, it’s important to be vigilant and take care of each other especially the elderly and vulnerable children and women. Taking safety and precautionary measures is a must. Let’s be safe from the raging flood waters! Unnecessary movement around flooded rivers, lakes and streams must be avoided. Moving to higher ground with necessities like food and water is imperative. It’s also important to join hands during the clean-up. Unity and teamwork will greatly help. Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Dewan’s brush with death
Referring to Dewan Chand’s detailed account of his brush with death (FT LTE 2/3), I can only say one thing: Not many live to tell such stories. You only live once, and indeed thanks to everyone who had a hand in making sure you lived through the double heart attack and the CWMH to tell us what happened. In your story, more than anything, it looks like your patience was the key to life. Donald Singh Nausori
Dangerous trees
It has been a while since I’ve observed any tree pruning carried out by the FRA in Nadi. As a daily driver along the road from town to Martintar, I’ve noticed several trees growing dangerously close to the road. For instance, a branch from a tree near the Nadi McDonald’s now hangs so low that it brushes against the roofs of buses. Along this same stretch, numerous other trees have branches protruding into the roadway. I hope drivers are noticing this and reporting the issue to their respective companies so it can be brought to FRA’s attention. Addressing overgrown trees and trimming branches that extend over the road should be prioritised for safety and accident prevention. This falls under the responsibilities of your road inspection team, who should be monitoring, identifying, and reporting potential hazards. Any obstructions or dangers on the road must be resolved swiftly to prevent unnecessary complications and reduce risks to drivers and passengers. A proactive approach is essential to ensure the safety of all road users. Neglecting such concerns could lead to serious accidents with long-term consequences. Trees obstructing or diminishing the effectiveness of streetlights need attention. Such trees should be trimmed or removed as necessary to guarantee proper lighting and visibility for road users. Ensuring public safety and well-being must always remain the highest priority. I hope this serves as a timely reminder for prompt and appropriate action on these matters. Suresh Chand Nadi
Modi’s awards
Google informs, reports indicate Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received a total of 29 to 31 international awards during his tenure since 2014, making him one of the most internationally decorated Indian leaders. Rajend Naidu should worry about PM Anthony Albanese’s support for US military operations against Iran (9 news Aust). UK and Canada (Anglo-Saxon) are also supporting the US. The European Union is silent. India is maintaining its strategic autonomy. I again remind Rajend Naidu that when the big war comes, the Modi Government and re-elected, Sanae Takaichi, PM of Japan will come to the rescue of Australians and other democracies. The US will be a severely depleted military power by then. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
QUICK VIEWS
Peregrine falcon
Contrary to the claim (FT 1/3) that the ganivatu (peregrine falcon, Falco peregrinus) is very rare and only found in Fiji and the Amazon, it is in fact found in almost every country in the world, and is the world’s most widespread raptor. In Fiji it is largely confined to clifftops, but has been spotted nesting on high buildings in Suva. Paul Geraghty USP, Suva
Growing old
I had the privilege to be invited to the soft launch on the review of the national ageing policy consultation at Holiday Inn. The consultation commences within Suva before it moves out to other areas within Fiji. Personally, I believe attaining the retirement age and continuing to live a healthy life is an achievement in itself. Unfortunately, some have not even made it to the retirement mark but have been called to eternal rest. I hope this revised policy will address all issues in relation to senior citizens of this country because one day we all will grow old. Juki Fong Chew Nadawa, Nasinu
Pari and taxi
No one in authority has come up with a plan of how to allow both services to co- exist, legally, despite the fact that we have a Coalition Government of three different political parties. Dan Urai Lautoka
Unfit calls
Often, there are calls to label individuals as unfit for positions (job related). But more often, those making the calls are already unfit in their positions (job related). Mohammed Imraz Janif Natabua, Lautoka
Ongoing wars
While the physical confrontation has begun in the Middle East, the loss of innocent human life is imminent. This loss of human life is caused by various explosive devices that were created by humans to kill humans. In this chaotic scenario, both sides are labeling each other as the enemy but at the end of the day humans are killing humans by the use of non-living devices. Just hoping good sense prevails and an amicable solution is reached to end this type of wars. Juki Fong Chew Nadawa, Nasinu
Ronnie’s anguish
It is apparent that FNPF staff enjoy good salary and fringe benefits. Last week or so the CEO announced that FNPF operating expenses for 2024 financial year were approximately $61.9 million, up from $26.2 million in 2023 (Google). I, therefore, see no reason why senior pensioners are denied restoration of their full pension. A few million dollars extra will have little to no effect on FNPF operations. It is a disgrace to remain quiet, thinking that this issue will dissipate into thin air. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
Senior retirees, festival
Pensioners’ nightmare
FNPF’s doggedly hard-line stance towards the surviving 1400 pre-2011 pensioners is nothing short of a cynically needless prolonged violation of basic human rights. The ongoing infliction of cruelty to senior retirees is downright shameful. It is abhorrent. The disrespect openly shown towards senior retirees in “stealing” our irrevocably just pensions is a crime in itself and humanitarian law. Our legally binding contract with FNPF is an irrevocable agreement. FNPF cannot plead inability to pay us today. Tomorrow is too late. Why is the regime under Bai and Kai, as third party allowed “supernatural authority” to deny our daily bread and butter in our twilight years? Is there a case to answer? It now appears the Coalition Government definitely lacks the empathy, compassion and political will to “use their golden key” to open that door, live happily and die peaceful deaths? Is this asking too much? It must be acknowledged beyond all reasonable doubt, FNPF, with all its liquidity, remains the Coalition Government’s cash cow. Government’s hands are tightly handcuffed. Please amend the Constitution; ring in necessary changes to the FNPF Board and end this suffering to betrayed senior retirees. Restorative law must apply forthwith, in my humble view made in Jesus’ holy name. In Him alone, nothing is impossible. This is the true “test case” for both, an inhumane FNPF team from top down to all our Cabinet members, especially the new inconsiderate Minister for Finance, Esrom Immanuel. Christians need to show belief and practise empathy, compassion, goodwill and respect to elderly persons. You fail us. “Do unto others as you have them do unto you. Thou shalt not steal. Honour your “mother and father.” If you fear God, I challenge you all to correct the evil inflicted on us, 14 long and painful years; and counting. (“The evil that men do will live on after them” – Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare: 1564 – 1616). The words are still very fresh, and valid today… and ring, ever-so-true. Remember, karma can always come back and haunt you. It does not go away. Ronnie Chang Martintar, Nadi
Festival of colours
On March 4, 2026 the Hindu community across the globe will celebrate Holi, the festival of colours. It is a vibrant Hindu festival which marks the arrival of Spring season in India. It also marks the legendary love between Lord Krishna and Radha. Further, it signifies the victory of good over evil. Holi is primarily celebrated in India and Nepal, the two Hindu countries. However, the migration pattern has seen the settling of people from these two countries in other parts of the world. They retain their language, religion and culture. Thus, Hindu festivals are celebrated with gusto in countries where they have settled. The legend has it that the tyrant King Hiranyakashyapu wanted people to worship him and not Lord Vishnu. His own son, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, refused to worship him. Annoyed, the tyrant wanted to kill his own son by throwing him down the mountain slopes. Prahlad survived and this infuriated the king. Hiranyakashpu, the tyrant king had a sister called Holika who had a boon that she would not get burnt in fire. King asked his sister to take Prahalad in her lap and sit in a huge bonfire. Prahalad survived and Holika perished. Lord Vishnu appeared as Narsingh (half Lion and half man) and killed Hiranyakashyapu, the tyrant King. A clear triumph of faith and victory of good over evil. Since then Hindus have celebrated Holi to mark the victory of good over evil. Bonfires are lit a day ahead of Holi and the following day (full moon day of the month of Phalgun) people sing, dance and play with ashes. Coloured powders, coloured water is used to smear the face or splash upon the devotees. Groups of singers sing, dance and make merry by playing dholak (drums) and other musical instruments. It really is a colourful atmosphere as singers move from door to door signifying unity, friendship and forgiveness. The red colour stands for love, yellow for health and blue for divinity. Thus, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the festival. Holi is not just a festival of colours, it is a celebration of life, love and the arrival of Spring season in India. The ethos of the festival is deeply moving. May I wish all Hindu devotees a very happy Holi Festival. Dewan Chand Namadi Heights, Suva
